Canada and the United States may be neighbors who share much of the same pop culture, television, and history, but when it comes to everyday language, things can get surprisingly confusing.
Although both nations speak English, Canadian English carries influences from British English, French, and its own unique cultural evolution. As a result, some Canadian terms completely mystify Americans.
Here’s a detailed look at 24 Canadian words and phrases that tend to stump people south of the border along with a glimpse into what they mean and why they’re so distinct.
1. Double-Double
A staple in Canadian coffee culture, especially at Tim Hortons, a “double-double” is a coffee with two creams and two sugars.
While Americans are no strangers to sweetened coffee, they don’t use this term and it can confuse someone unfamiliar with the shorthand.
2. Loonie
Canada’s one-dollar coin features a loon (a type of bird) on one side. Hence, it’s affectionately called a “loonie.” Americans used to dollar bills might raise an eyebrow at this animal-themed nickname.
3. Toonie
Naturally following the loonie is the “toonie,” Canada’s two-dollar coin. It’s a blend of “two” and “loonie.”
The coin itself is bi-metallic and features a polar bear adding to the charm. Americans, used to coin names like “quarter” or “dime,” find these nicknames quirky.
4. Poutine
This Canadian comfort food is made from French fries topped with squeaky cheese curds and rich brown gravy.
Though gaining traction in some U.S. cities, many Americans still aren’t familiar with the dish or how to pronounce it (hint: it’s “poo-teen”).
5. Chesterfield
To Americans, it’s a couch or sofa. But in older Canadian usage, “chesterfield” is the go-to word for that piece of furniture.
Though becoming less common with younger generations, it still pops up in conversation and old-timey references.
6. Serviette
Need something to wipe your mouth with after a meal? In Canada, that would be a “serviette,” especially if it’s made of paper. Americans typically use “napkin,” which makes the term sound fancy or unfamiliar to them.
7. Runners
Canadian kids lace up their “runners” for gym class. In the U.S., they’d be called sneakers or tennis shoes.
“Runners” may sound more logical given their function, but the term can confuse Americans who associate “running shoes” with professional athletic gear.
8. Washroom
Canadians rarely ask where the “bathroom” is instead, they’ll ask for the “washroom.” While Americans say “restroom,” “bathroom,” or even “ladies’ room,” the Canadian term reflects a more polite or neutral alternative.
9. Pop
One of the great North American linguistic divides Canadians (especially in the western and central regions) call carbonated soft drinks “pop.”
Americans in most states say “soda.” In some southern U.S. regions, everything is a “Coke,” regardless of flavor.
10. Mickey
In Canada, a “mickey” isn’t a mouse it’s a 375 ml (13 oz) bottle of liquor, often shaped to fit in a jacket pocket.
In the U.S., a “mickey” might mean a drink that’s been spiked, which can lead to some awkward misunderstandings.
11. Tuque (or Toque)
Pronounced “toohk,” this warm knitted winter hat is a Canadian essential during harsh winters. Americans may say “beanie” or “knit cap,” but “tuque” has uniquely Canadian charm and it even appears in official weather advisories.
12. Hydro
“Did you pay the hydro bill?” In Canada, this refers to the electricity bill, as much of the country’s power comes from hydroelectric sources. In the U.S., “hydro” might be interpreted literally like water causing momentary confusion.
13. Kraft Dinner (KD)
Americans know it as Kraft Mac & Cheese, but in Canada, it’s called Kraft Dinner or just “KD.” It’s an iconic pantry item and even considered part of national identity. Many Canadians grew up eating KD weekly.
14. Pencil Crayons
In the U.S., they’re called “colored pencils.” But Canadian students use “pencil crayons” in school. The term makes sense, but can momentarily puzzle Americans, who may envision something entirely different.
15. Grade 1, Grade 2, etc.
In Canada, children attend “Grade 1” and “Grade 2,” whereas Americans say “1st grade,” “2nd grade,” and so on. It’s a small difference, but noticeable in conversations around education and school systems.
16. Zed
Perhaps the most famous linguistic difference between Canadians and Americans is the pronunciation of the letter “Z.”
Canadians (like the British) say “zed,” while Americans say “zee.” Singing the alphabet together? You’ll hit a snag at the end.
17. Bachelor Apartment
This term refers to a studio apartment with one main room that serves as both bedroom and living space.
While Americans may understand the concept, they’re more likely to call it a “studio,” making “bachelor apartment” sound gender-specific or outdated.
18. Garburator
This is a Canadian term for a kitchen garbage disposal unit. It’s rarely used in the U.S., where “garbage disposal” is standard.
The mechanical-sounding “garburator” often mystifies Americans when they hear it for the first time.
19. Parkade
A “parkade” is a multi-level parking garage, commonly found in Canadian cities. Americans typically use terms like “parking garage” or “parking deck.” The Canadian version has a more sci-fi ring to it, often drawing amused reactions.
20. All-Dressed Chips
“All-dressed” is a uniquely Canadian potato chip flavor that combines barbecue, ketchup, salt and vinegar, and sour cream and onion all in one.
While some U.S. snack companies have begun offering the flavor, it’s still largely unfamiliar territory for many Americans.
21. Dart
Canadian slang for a cigarette, a “dart” can cause confusion especially if someone casually says, “I’m going out for a dart.” In the U.S., that might evoke images of pub games, not smoking breaks.
22. Homo Milk
On Canadian grocery shelves, you’ll see “homo milk” short for homogenized milk, which is whole milk with fat evenly distributed.
Americans usually call it “whole milk,” and the abbreviation can definitely catch them off guard.
23. Eavestrough
This is the Canadian equivalent of what Americans call “gutters” on a house. While descriptive (it channels water from the eaves), the term is rarely used in American English and might even be mistaken for an obscure plumbing device.
24. Kerfuffle
A delightful term for a fuss or small commotion, “kerfuffle” is used more often in Canada (and the UK) than in the U.S.
While some Americans are familiar with it, many aren’t and it tends to raise eyebrows or laughter the first time it’s heard.
Alicia Richards